Art Connections

Written by SAA gallery member Skip Berrien, this article illustrates what we enjoy doing here at the SAA, connecting patrons with the art works in our gallery.

Connecting the generations

Two brothers, possibly twins, rushed through the door with their long hair flying accompanied by a young lady in pink from the hair on her head to the tips of her boots. They quickly approached the desk asking if there were any paintings by Barbara Cowan. Having just inspected the bins, I took them to our local scenes bin where Barbara had one of her prints of the local band playing in the bandstand. The guys were ecstatic, “That’s our ‘Popa’, grandfather, playing the bass drum.” Then I guided them over to the Christmas display of Barbara’s work including other Exeter events. What a thrill they were having.

Brass Band by Barbara Cowan

Continue reading →

February Highlights

Cottage Way by Skip Berrien

Morning Fog Lifting by Kathy Statires

Our gallery is open:
Wednesday-Saturday 10am – 5pm
Sunday 1pm – 4pm

The Seacoast Artist Association is an all-volunteer non-profit completely supported by donations, exhibition fees, and sales commissions. Consider becoming a member, or support the arts by mailing your donation check to: Seacoast Artist Association, 130 Water Street, Exeter, NH 03833 or by using this link to our secure Square payment site.

SAA Scholarship Fund Donation

Donate

Body of Work Exhibits in February

Skip Berrien
Mainely Maine

My approach to painting continually evolves and is often experimental. Here I present essentially two bodies of work…one largely blue and crisp while the other is dominated by the red underpainting using a softer brush. Each evokes a different atmosphere…at least for me and maybe for you as well.

About 20 years ago while out on Monhegan, I contemplated painting as I approached retirement from medicine. I have never regretted that inspiration which has permitted me to experiment with color, composition, texture and modes of expression.

These particular paintings reflect our summers in Downeast Maine where my wife and I enjoy the vigor and solitude of the coast as well as the character of the region. The adventure with paint continues as I explore the “still lives” of nature and find expression for the spaces we pass through and inhabit.

Kathy Statires
Fresh of the Boat: Painting Along the New England Coast

After retiring from teaching art for many years, I had the desire to focus on my own artwork. Since I enjoy the outdoors, painting as a plein air artist made sense. I’ve been painting outdoors for the past six years.

My husband always had a boat at the ocean, so I’ve been in love with painting from his boat. Then, of course, looking at other subjects close to the ocean. Most of my paintings have water in some part of my works of art.

I paint with oils but also enjoy working with pastels and watercolors. When I’m outside, planning my composition, I usually start with some thumbnail sketches before drawing on my canvas. Then I visualize and paint an underpainting showing the different values. Adding color is my last step, and if I don’t have time to finish it, I’ll take notes on mixing my colors for completion. Most often I finish my paintings in my home studio.

Continue reading →

Body of Work Exhibits in January

CHERYL SAGER – JAN: “WINTER WHIMSY”

Winter Birch V by Cheryl Sager


I have always loved watercolor painting and added learning how to my “bucket list.” In 2014-15 I began taking watercolor painting classes with Doris Rice, a well-known watercolorist and teacher who provides many painting opportunities, as well as critique, suggestions and encouragement. Taking all of this to heart, I began entering SAA Theme Shows, and signed up for a couple of Body of Work shows. Additionally, I show and sell artwork at various art shows in the Seacoast and have even taken on a few commissions. All of my pieces are original works as I makes no prints, thus making each painting “one of a kind.” This includes the images on my cards, which can be removed, matted and framed. Each painting is signed and dated on the front and back. When you look for my signature on the front you will have to be a bit of detective because my signature is hidden within the painting. I hope you enjoy the search!

Winter River 1 by Cheryl Sager


In this Body of Work Show I wanted to share the beauty and fun of Winter. Several of the paintings take you to special places in New Hampshire, while others share various activities that make Winter special. So whether whimsical, majestic, fun or serious, the beauty of Winter is here.

SARAH OPPENHEIMER – JAN: “INSIDE, OUTSIDE, UPSIDE DOWN”

Dreaming Garden by Sarah Oppenheimer


I am a Modern Romantic artist from Kingston, NH. By profession, I have been a teacher of young children, but making things and painting has always been a part of my life. Favorite mediums include, but are not limited to, watercolor, oil, glitter and paper. As a gardener, walker, traveler and lover of animals, I find inspiration in nature. When stuck inside, I paint what is available. Currently I am an art student at the University of New Hampshire and take classes at the Currier Museum. I find inspiration in color, line shape, art history and architectural corners. As a reader I find inspiration in literature.

Wallis Sands by Sarah Oppenheimer


My mini show at Seacoast Artist Association is titled – “Inside, Outside, Upside Down.” The title is respectfully borrowed from Stan and Jan Berenstain. In it you will find works painted inside, some outside and yes, one that works upside down. My work has been exhibited in my mother’s pantry, and now in my children’s homes, local libraries and coffee houses and a few small galleries. I am happily finding a home here at Seacoast Artist Association.